Arsenal are likely to sell a large number of first team players this summer as Mikel Arteta aims to put his stamp on the squad.
Mikel only arrived just before the January transfer window and so was very clear that he wanted to give every player a chance with a fresh start, but by the time the summer rolls around, he will have been in charge for 6 months and made his mind up on some players. And some appear more likely than others to be moved on, based on Mikel’s recent first team selections.
According to the Daily Mail, Arsenal are likely to put Matteo Guendouzi, Sokratis and Ainsley Maitland-Niles and Mesut Ozil on the market this summer, whilst the long term futures of both senior strikers Aubameyang and Lacazette remain up in the air.
Guendouzi, whilst possessing a huge amount of potential, has fallen out of favour since Unai Emery’s departure. The young Frenchman appears to have some discipline issues and his lack of fit into a structured system has seen him fall down the pecking order under Arteta. Considering his young age, the Gunners could make a large amount on his sale, having already been involved in the French senior team, interest would not be short in him. It wouldn’t be unrealistic to expect bids in advance of £40million for him, and that amount would go some way to funding purchases.
Sokratis and Ozil would attract minimal fees due to their ages and contract situations – but with both players having just one year remaining on their deals and no intention to extend, the club are keen to move the duo on this summer.
Maitland-Niles is another who has struggled with discipline under Arteta, but due to his age and ability, Arsenal would hope to sell Ainsley for upwards of £15million.
As we told you yesterday, the Gunners may also move on Aubameyang this summer and due to his form, the Gabon international would likely attract bids in excess of £50million.
These four would not be the only to leave the club this summer, but if they all did then around £80million could be raised, as well as freeing up more than half a million pounds per week on the wage bill.
On the face of it selling players with not long left on their contract and young players with value but not fitting the clubs current style makes a lot of sense. Let’s see what happens.